Saskatchewan Polytechnic Launches $2 Million Project for Women Veterans in Ukraine

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has unveiled a significant international initiative aimed at supporting women veterans in Ukraine. The new project, named the Women Veteran Reintegration in Ukraine Project (WVRUP), is valued at $2 million and is funded by Global Affairs Canada. This five-year program will facilitate the transition of female veterans into civilian life through various employment opportunities, entrepreneurship training, and psychosocial support.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney on August 24, 2023, coinciding with the 34th anniversary of Ukrainian Independence Day. WVRUP will be implemented in collaboration with the Women’s Information Consultative Center, the Ministry of Veteran Affairs, and the State Economic Service of Ukraine.

Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, stated, “We are honoured to support the Government of Ukraine in empowering the lives of their women veterans during this pivotal time. This project reflects our commitment to global citizenship and the power of education to transform lives.”

Over the last decade, the representation of women in Ukraine’s Armed Forces has surged, now exceeding 70,000 personnel. Despite this growth, many female veterans encounter significant obstacles when reintegrating into civilian life, including diminished income, limited job prospects, and challenges in entrepreneurship.

WVRUP will target regions with high concentrations of veterans, specifically Kyiv, Dnipro, and Vinnitsya. The project aims to enhance the socio-economic well-being of women veterans and their families. By 2028, WVRUP is expected to reach approximately 30,000 women veterans and provide benefits to around 6,000 family members. More than 60 master trainers will participate in the initiative, which will introduce six new or improved training programs focusing on high-demand sectors.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic will spearhead the development of instructor training, as well as educational resources, trainer handbooks, and assessment tools aimed at fostering skills and entrepreneurial development. Ukrainian trainers from the Ministry of Veteran Affairs and State Economic Service will be equipped to deliver these services and advocate for gender-sensitive reforms.

Angela Wojcichowsky, director of International Projects at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, noted, “Sask Polytech has worked in Ukraine since 2016, and this project builds on a foundation of meaningful partnerships and mutual learning. We believe in the resilience of Ukraine’s women veterans and their potential to lead in rebuilding their communities.”

With over 30 years of experience in international education, Saskatchewan Polytechnic is recognized for its expertise in aligning skills training with local, regional, and global labor market needs. The institution has a proven track record in managing international development projects, having engaged in national system reform initiatives in countries such as Ukraine, Jordan, and Vietnam, as well as local reforms in Ghana, Kenya, and Colombia.

The WVRUP initiative represents a significant step towards empowering female veterans in Ukraine, providing them with the necessary tools and support to thrive in civilian life. Through this project, Saskatchewan Polytechnic continues to demonstrate its commitment to international cooperation and the advancement of social equity.